In which literary genre is "Beowulf" classified?

"Beowulf" is classified as epic poetry, a genre characterized by its narrative structure and grand themes, often involving heroic figures and significant cultural values. This ancient poem, composed in Old English, tells the story of its titular hero, Beowulf, who embarks on grand adventures to battle formidable foes such as the monster Grendel and a fire-breathing dragon.

Epic poetry often features a formal and elevated style, a focus on heroes and heroic deeds, and a moral or cultural message that reflects the society from which it originates. In "Beowulf," the themes of bravery, loyalty, and honor resonate with the values of early medieval Scandinavian culture, making it a seminal work in this genre.

While drama involves performance and dialogue between characters, lyrical poetry emphasizes personal emotions and thoughts, and prose is a form of written language that adheres to natural speech patterns, none of these classifications encapsulate the grand narrative and thematic scope found in "Beowulf." Thus, it is firmly situated within the realm of epic poetry, distinguished by its storytelling approach and the heroic exploits it chronicles.